jane: you're outnumbered!! :) And I did not know about the panel ready CDs, but the pics I've seen don't thrill me. I only like the look of panel ready when they are completely built in and you really have to know where they are to find them - and that's not in the budget! deedles - so true on the traffic. And, really, it's me and 2 kids. DH is rarely home when I'm cooking and we entertain, but not a ton. The oven is currently right next to the tiniest aisle and doorway to the DR so there is TONS of traffic there. This would be better for sure. And we currently have no place for people to sit and talk to me - once they have a place at the peninsula, even less likely they'll be milling about in front of my stove. Maybe I'll find a work table that can double as a sideboard...then I can leave it in the DR 90% of the time, but if we are having a party with lots of kids/people we can move it in from of the cooking area for that day.

Curious, I can not tell from these pictures, are the antique tables taller than the piecrust? Is there only one piecrust and when you say drum, those are the first pics round duncan's? I'm so easily confused. Maybe you would like having glass cut to fit atop each table. Another beautiful touch might be glass trays of some type rather than coasters that are sometimes forgotten to use. Plants can also fit on snce plates, bowls or trays to protect. I still like the antique's each side of the fireplace, because I feel the large sofa fills the left side. I think I might like the piecrust next to the entry chair because it is a bit shorter? and the trim base rather than four more legs infront of the chair four legs. In the FR I still like the drum duncan's with the furniture, which you could cover just the top with a waterproof flannel tablecloth, finished with a beautiful fabric of your liking over the protection. Can probably cut two protectors from one vinyl/flannel for penneys until you find something you love. There is no right or wrong, just what make you feel comfy and happy! All your pieces are fabulous, I wouldn't part with any either, but admit, I covet you two antique tables,lol.

Go with the most comfortable but leather will last longer and wear better. Take a look at Omnia or Palliser for similar styles to the microfiber one you like. Omnia is all top grain and Palliser offers all leather or a leather/vinyl option. By the look of your empty room you can go with most anything.

hex. gray grout. those other tiles just don't look right. too formal looking, especially if the tile surround is staying as is. btw, have you thought about doing a diff color since this is a kids bath? (and if the white tiles are staying in the tub area, doing a diff color on the floor will add some contrast) white tiles will be a cleaning nightmare. don't even think about doing white grout. what about a larger hex tile (less grout lines)?